Bump up other $100 and you can get an Eastman MD305 which is a true lifetime instrument. At the sub $700 price point you can get a really nice A style or a so-so F style. I went on a hunt for a mando a few years back and was shocked to discover how expensive they are vs. guitars. I lucked into a trade on an Eastman MD315 or I would still be without one.
The Mandolin Store has 78 mandolins and only three are under $400. Only six are under $500.
https://themandolinstore.com/product...ory/mandolins/